Introduction
This is a common condition that may be diagnosed when a person has been feeling down and worried—and has lost pleasure in daily activities—for more than two weeks.
What is it?
The symptoms of depression can include continuous low mood or sadness, having low self-esteem, feeling hopeless and helpless, being tearful, feeling guilt-ridden, and being irritable and intolerant of others. A wide range of biological, social, and environmental factors can cause depression. External causes predominantly encompass life events that can have a negative impact on a person, and often act in combination with internal causes—those within an individual—to trigger depression. A person with depression is unmotivated and uninterested, finds it difficult to make decisions, and takes no enjoyment from life. As a result, the individual may avoid the social events that they usually enjoy, thus missing out on social interaction, which can cause a vicious circle which sees them spiraling further downward. Depression can make it difficult for a person to concentrate and remember things. In extreme cases the sense of hopelessness may lead to thoughts of self-harm or even suicide.
EXTERNAL CAUSES
- Relationship problems leading to depression in the longer term.
- Pregnancy and birth and the overwhelming prospect of parenthood for new mothers.
- Money, or the lack of it, and the stress caused by financial concerns and worries about debt
- Loneliness as a result of health or disability, especially in the elderly.
- Job/unemployment impacting status and self-esteem, perception of a positive future, and ability to engage socially.
- Bereavement following the death of a family member, friend, or pet.
- Bullying among children and adults, whether physical or verbal, face to face or online.
- Alcohol and drugs due to the physiological, social, and economic consequences of addiction.
INTERNAL CAUSES
- Stress-when a person cannot cope with the demands placed on them.
- Personality traits, such as neuroticism and pessimism.
- Childhood experiences, especially if the person felt out of control and helpless at the time.
- Family history, if a parent or sibling has had depression.
- Long-term health problems, such as heart, lung, or kidney disease; diabetes; and asthma.
How is it diagnosed?
A doctor/ psychologist can diagnose by asking the person questions about their symptoms. One objective is to find out how long the symptoms have been going on. The doctor may also suggest blood tests to rule out any other illness that may cause the symptoms of depression. Subsequent treatment depends on the severity of the depression, but the main option is to undergo psychotherapy. Antidepressants may be offered to help the person cope with everyday life. For mild to moderate depression, exercise can be helpful. In severe cases, hospital admission or medication for psychotic symptoms may be needed
